West Brom snub head referee's apology

WEST BROM are still screaming blue murder over their Chelsea penalty hell - despite a personal apology from referees' supremo Mike Riley.

FLABBERGASTED: Steven Clarke reacts to the decision to award Chelsea a controversial penalty [GETTY] [GETTY]]
 

Riley has said sorry to the Baggies and admitted official Andre Marriner got it wrong on November 9 when he awarded Chelsea a stoppage-time spot-kick at Stamford Bridge.

Eden Hazard's equaliser just 20 seconds from the end denied West Brom another famous away victory following their shock success at Manchester United in September.


Marriner was fooled by Ramires' tumble in the box, which prompted angry tunnel scenes between Albion players and indignant Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho.

Baggies chief Steve Clarke is pleased Riley had the courtesy to call and apologise, but still feels there should be a debate about how to cut out diving.

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“We've had a phone call from Mike Riley to apologise. It doesn't get us any more points, but it's nice of Mike to phone”

Steve Clarke, West Brom manager

Clarke said: "We've had a phone call from Mike Riley to apologise. It doesn't get us any more points, but it's nice of Mike to phone.
"If he's apologising, he obviously feels it was the wrong decision. We have to put it behind us now and move forward."

But Clarke, who saw his side denied a clear penalty in the goalless draw at Stoke as well, stands by the club's decision to send a letter to the authorities calling for more discussion.
Decisions He added: "It's not necessarily a discussion between us and the authorities, but a discussion between everyone to see if there is a way we can improve the game.

"If there is technology that can be used to help referees make difficult decisions, which is what they have to do, then let's look at it.
"If we can improve it, good. If we can't improve it, then we'll stick with what we've got."